WO1998006980A2 - Collapsible stove - Google Patents

Abstract

A collapsible fuel-burning stove includes a burner assembly (52) and a collapsible frame (51) for supporting the burner assembly (52), the frame including a plurality of support members (92, 93), the support members being pivotal (90, 91) relative to one another about a common axis on which the burner assembly is supported.

Description

TITLE

COLLAPSIBLE STOVE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The pre∞nt invention relates to a collapsible stove, .and more paLrticulϊirly to a collapsible camp stove with pivoting support members.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) is generally utilized as a fuel or liquid which vaporizes at ambient pressures and temperatures, but which is stored in containers under pressure in liquid form. Most convention^ burning appliances which utilize LPG ve relatively simple, comprising a valve adapted to connect the pressurized LPG container to a burner. Most of the.se burning appliances operate on a vapor-withdrawal principle, drawing vapor from the conta ner. The container is generally oriented rø that the liquid settles to the bottom .and the self-pressurized vapor collects at the top. The appliance draws this vapor from the container in order to fuel the burner.

While simple to operate, this type of burning appliance has s .everal drawbacks. As the vapor is withdrawn, the pressure in the conteiner will drop. Also, .addition-al vapor will bubble from the remaining liquid in the container. As this occurs, the liquid will cool a . nd the pressure in the container will drop further. As the pressure drops, so does the output of the burning appliance. In addition, if the fuel is a mixture of gases, such as a commonly used blend of propane and butane, these different components will bubble out of the liquid at different rates. Thus, the mixture of the ga.seous components in the vapor will change, altering the performance of the appliance as it consumes the fuel. All of these factors, which are aggravated at low temperatures, result in inconsistent burner output. Prior attempts to develop burning appliances, which operate on liquid-withdrawn principles generally involve a porous wick depending from a check valve within the container. The wick draws liquid fuel from the container, and the fuel is vaporized after it is extracted from the container. While thes.e liquid withdrawal arrangements do not suffer from cold weather performance difficulties to the same extent as vapor withdrawal appliances, it is difficult to maintain a sufficient wicking rate to keep up with the output demands of many appliances, particularly at low fuel levels.

Thus, there is a need in the art for a pressurized LPG .container which permits withdrawal of liquid fuel from the conteiner, .and from which liquid fuel can be withdrawn at an acceptable rate, regardless of fuel levels.

In order to withdraw liquid from a canister of a container using a dip tube, it is necess∑iry that the dip tube be submersed in the liquid in the canister. This can be accomplished by orienting the canister. For example, the dip tube can be straight, and the canister can be designed to operated in the upright position. Alternatively, the dip tube can be designed to extend to a sidewall of the canister, and the canister can be designed to be oriented with the dip tube pointing down, to where the liquid will accumulate. However, the.se approaches require the canister orientation to be maintained, which can be burdenrøme in a camping .setting.

Thus, there is a need in the art for a canister from which liquid can be withdrawn regardless of the canister orientation. With liquid withdrawal, it is desired that the liquid fuel be properly vaporized before it reaches the burner. Thus, there is an additional need in the art for a connector between the fuel container and the burning appliance which assists in vaporizing the fuel.

Because campers and backpackers seek to minimize the volume, weight, and amount of equipment they carry, appliances such as camp stoves must be compact, lightweight, and versatile, yet easy to assemble and operate. It is therefore desirable to provide a compact, lightweight, and versatile portable stove.

U.S. Patent No. 4,177,790 to Zenzaburo, for a "Pocket Camp Stove", discusses one such approach, in which a stove has three wire legs attached to a hub. The three legs ve movable between a folded position, in which all thr.ee legs .are relatively together, .and an in-u.se position, in which the three legs ve substønti.ally equally spaced apart and extend radially outwardly from the hub member. Although this stove is compact and lightweight, the independently movable legs can be awkward to manipulate and unstable if not properly oriented.

Thus, there is a need in the jut for a stove frame which not only is compact, lightweight, .and verøtile but which al-so is stable and simple to operate. It is often ch.allenging to achieve a proper fuel flow to a burning appliance during start-up. Often, the flow rates will be set too high or low for proper ignition. It is difficult to gauge from sight or sound exactly how far a valve should be opened prior to ignition. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a mechanism by which the fuel flow rate can be properly controlled during start- up.

It is also desirable to provide a quick and simple mechanism for securing a container to a burning appliance. One attempt, Iwaniti's CB-55E stove, connects the canister by providing a notch in an extended rim of the canister cap. This notch matches a lever on the stove adjacent the valve mechanism. In order to engage the canister to the stove, the canister has to be oriented ∞ that the lever fits within the notch. Once engaged, turning the canister actuates the lever, which, in turn, actuates a revolving collet. Within the collet sits a stationary cam. As the collet revolves, it contacts the cam, which forces fingers of the collet into a groove in the canister cap, .securing the canister to the stove.

While such a mechanism provides a secure connection between the canister and the stove, it requires the canister to be oriented properly for engagement. It also requires that the canister include a extended canister rim, which increases the overall size of the canister.

Thus, there is a need in the .art for a connector which permits a simple mechanism for .securing a canister to a burning appliance or other outlet, .and which does not require considerable effort to orient prior to connection, and which does not increase the overall size of the canister.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a collapsible fuel- burning stove including, a burner assembly and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner .assembly. The frame includes a plurality of support members, the support members being pivotal relative to one another about a common .axis on which the burner assembly is supported.

In another aspect, a collapsible fuel-burning stove includes a burner assembly and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly. The frame includes a psrir of support members, each support member includng a pair of opposing support legs, .and at l>east one support member being pivotally attached to the burner .assembly. The frame is movable between an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collap.sed configuration, in which the support members are juxtaposed in a compact .arrangement. In yet .another aspect, the present invention realtes to a collapsible fuel-burning stove including a burner assembly and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner .assembly. The frame includes a pair of support members, each support member comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotally attached to the burner assembly so that the support members can pivot relative to one another. The frame is -movable between an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collapse configuration, in which the support members are juxtapose in a compact arrangement.

In another embodiment, a collapsible fuel-burning stove includes a burner assembly and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner as∞mbly. The frame includes a pair of substantially X-shaped support members. Each support member includes a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotally attached to the burner assembly so that the support members can pivot relative to one smother. The frame is movable between an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collapsed configuration, in which the support members ve juxtapesed in a compact arrangement.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a collapsible fuel-burning stove includes a first burner assembly and a first collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly, the first frame including a pair of support members. Each support member of the first frame includes a pair of opposing support legs, and at least one support member of the first frame is pivotølly attached to the first burner assembly. A second burner assembly is provided, and a second collapsible frame supports the s . econd burner assembly. The second frame includes a pair of support members, each support member of the second frame including a pair of opposing support legs, at least one support member of the second frame being pivotølly attach^ to the .second burner assembly, .and each support member of the second frame being pivotølly attached to a corre.sponding support member of the first frame so that the stove is movable between an operating configuration, in which the first and second frames c . ooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collapsed configuration, in which the first a . nd second frames .are juxtaposed in a compact arrangement. In a still further aspect, a collapsible fuel-burning stove includes a first burner assembly, a first collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly, the first frame including a pair of support members, each support member of the first frame including a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotølly attøched to the first burner assembly so that the support members of the first frame can pivot relative to one another. A .second burner .assembly is provided, and a second collapsible frame supports the second burner a . ssembly, the second frame including a pair of support members, each support member of the second frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotølly attøched to the s .econd burner assembly so that the support members of the .second frame can pivot relative to one smother, .and each support member of the .second frame is pivotally attøched to a corresponding support member of the first frame so that the stove is movable between sin operating configuration, in which the first and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collapsed configuration, in which the first .and second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a collapsible fuel-burning stove including a first burner assembly and a first collapsible frame for supporting the burner .as.sen.bly. The first frame includes a pair of substantially X-shaped support members, each support member of the first frame including a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotally attached to the first burner .assembly so that the support members of the first frame can pivot relative to one another. A second burner assembly is provided, and a second collapsible frame supports the .second burner .assembly. The .second frame includes a pair of substsintially X-shaped support members, each support member of the second frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing legs extending from the pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to the .second burner .assembly .so that the support members of the .second frame can pivot relative to one another, .and each support member of the second frame is pivotally attached to a corresponding support member of the first frame so that the stove is movable between an operating configuration, in which the first .and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collaps-ed configuration, in which the first s d second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement. In yet another embodiment, a collapsible fuel-burning stove includes a first burner assembly and a first collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly. The first frame includes a pair of substanti^ly X-shaped support members, each support member of the first frame including a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotally attached to the first burner .assembly so that the support members of the first frame can pivot relative to one another. A .second burner .assembly, and a second collapsible frame for supporting the second burner .assembly ve provided. The second frame includes a pair of substanti.ally X-shaped support members, each support member of the second frame including a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing legs extending from the pivot. At least one of the pivots is pivotally attached to the .second burner assembly so that the support members of the second frame can pivot relative to one another, and each support member of the .second frame is pivotally attached to a corresponding support member of the first frame iso that the stove is movable betw.een sm operating configuration, in which the first and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collap.sed configuration, in which the first .and .second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

These and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention can be better appreciated with reference to the following drawings, in which like reference numerals .and reference characters refer to like elements throughout. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

The invention is described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention as appli.ed to a portable camp stove;

FIG. IB is a perspective view of smother embodiment of the portable camp stove of the present invention;

FIG. 1C is an exploded perspective view of the stove of FIG. IB; FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view of a collapsed stove similv to that .seen in FIG. 1A, a difference being in the burner cap wind .screen construction — unitary in FIG. 1A but .segmented in FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an .aerosol-type canister used in the present invention to contain liquified petroleum gas fuel; FIG. 4 is a section.al view of the canister of FIG. 3 and illustrates the inventive dip tube when the canister is in a normal, stored condition;

FIG. 5 A is another section^ view of the canister of FIG. 3 but showing the disposition of the dip tube when the canister is disposed horizontally as may be the case in operating the camp stove; FIG. 5B is smother .sectional view of the canister of FIG. 3 but showing the dispontion of another embodiment of the dip tube when the canister is disposed horizontally;

FIG. 6A is a fragmentary perspective view of the v.alve assembly of FIG. 1A; FIG. 6B is a fragmentary perspective view of another embodiment of the valve assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 6C is a sectional view of an embodiment of a valve body of the vsdve as∞mbly shown in FIG. 6B;

FIG. 6D is ∑m exploded perspective view of the vstlve .assembly of FIG. 6B; FIG. 7 is smother persφective view of the v.alve as^mbly of FIG. 6A through 6D;

FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the valve assembly of FIG. 1A but taken essentially at right angles to the views of FIGS. 6A .and 7; FIG. 9A is an exploded sectionsd view of the camming members of the valve assembly as also seen particulvly in the central portions of FIGS. 6A, 7, and 8;

FIG. 9B is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the valve asisembly of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a fragmentary exploded sectional view of the valve assembly and canister of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 11 A is a bottom plan view of the collet portion of the valve assembly as would be seen along the sight line 11A-11A as applied to FIG. 10;

FIG. 1 IB is a perspective view of an embodiment of die collet of the present invention;

FIG. 11C is a front plan view of the collet of FIG. 11B;

FIG. 1 ID is a sectionsd view tøken .along the line D-D of FIG. 11C;

FIG. 1 IE is a side elevational view of the collet of FIG. 1 IB; FIG. 11F is .another side elevational view of the cam of FIG.

11B;

FIG. 11G is a perspective view of the collet of FIG. 9B;

FIG. 11H is a sectionsd view of the collet tøken along line H-H in FIG. 11G; FIG. 12A is a bottom plan view of the cam portion of the valve assembly as would be seen along the sight line 12A-12A as applied to FIG. 10;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of .an embodiment of the cam of the present invention;

FIG. 12C is a front plan view of the cam of FIG. 12B; FIG. 12D is a sectionsd view tøken along the line D-D of FIG.

12C; FIG. 12E is a sectionsd view tøken a . long the line E-E of FIG.

12C;

FIG. 12F is a side elevational view of the cam of FIG. 12B; FIG. 12G is a perspective view of the am of FIG. 9B; FIG. 12H is a side elevational view of the cam of FIG. 12G;

FIG. 13 is a view similv to FIG. 10 but with the v.alve assembly connected to the canister;

FIG. 14 is a view tøken sdong the sight line 14-14 as applied to FIG. 13 and showing the collet .and cam members in condition prior to operative engagement;

FIG. 15 is a view similv to FIG. 14 but showing the collet .and cam members in operative engagement;

FIG. 16 is a fragmentøry perspective view of the stove of FIG. 1A to illustrate the conduits between the valve assembly and one of the burners; FIG. 17 is an enlvged section^ view as seen along the line

17-17 as applied to FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a longitudinal s-ectionsd view as seen along the line 18-18 applied to FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a fragmentøry perspective view to further illustrate the conduit on the underside of the burner;

FIG. 20 is still another fragmentary perspective view of the stove of FIG. 1 and oriented so as to show the pivot corners of the pivotølly collapsible frame;

FIG. 21 is yet .another fragmentøry perspective view of the FIG. 1A stove .and oriented .so as to pvticulvly show the pivots under the burners;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the foldability of the .applianc. e frame;

FIG. 23 is a rev perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 22; FIG. 24 is an enlarged fragmentøry perspective view of the right hand end portion of the embodiment of FIG. 22 a . nd with folding just started as can be appreciated from the gap between adjacent segments making up the bowl-like wind screen of the burner;

FIG. 25 is a view of the embodiment of FIG. 22 .almost completely collaps-ed; FIG. 26 is a view of the final stage of folding as can be appreciated by the almost total stacking of one bowl segment on the other;

FIG. 27 is a fragmentary perspective view of another embodiment of the invention — this featuring a stove with a single burner;

FIG. 28 is a view similv to FIG. 13 featuring a s . econd embodiment of the connector;

FIG. 29 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the connector of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a fragmentary perspective view of a third embodiment of the connector; FIG. 31 is a sectional view as seen along the line 31-31 of FIG.

30;

FIG. 32 is a view similv to FIG. 31 but of a modification of the embodiment thereof.

FIG. 33 A is a front elevational view of an embodiment of the canister cap of the present invention.

FIG. 33B is a top plan view of a pedestal portion of the canister cap of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 34A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the collapsible camp stove frame of the present invention; and FIGS. 34B through 34D ve perspective views of the support legs of the embodiment shown in FIG. 34A.

DETAILED DESCRD7TION

In the illustration given and with reference first to FIG. 1A, reference numeral 50 designates generally the portable camp stove which exemplifies advantageous use of our invention. The stove includes a collapsible or foldable frame 51 (see FIG. 2) which supports two identical burners 52 and 52' — the latter being shown in the upper left of FIG. 1A.

Starting at the upper right in FIG. 1A, this application of the invention includes a canister 53 containing pressurized liquified petroleum gas (LPG) fuel. More particulvly, the fuel may be a butane fuel or a butan.e/propane mixture in liquid form and the canister can be of conventional aerosol design such as that provide for in U.S. Department of Transportation Specification 2P or 2Q.

Connected to the cap of the canister 53 is a valve assembly 54. Coupling the valve assembly 54 to the burners 52, 52' are conduit means generally designated 55. As indicated previously, there ve inventive features in each of the components just mentioned, and these will be described in serial fashion, starting with the canister. Thus, there is a flow path from the cap of the canister 53 to the burners 52, 52'.

Canister

FIGS. 3 through 5A and 5B show a canister 53 of the present invention, for containing LPG fuel. The canister is preferably a generally cylindrical aerosol-type vessel, .and can be lvgely conventional in design, with the primary excerptions being a unique outlet pedestal and a unique dip tube, discussed below. U.S. Department of Transportation Specifications 2P and 2Q provide examples of conventional aerosol designs.

While the canister of the present invention has utility with various pressurized liquids, it is particulvly applicable for use with LPG fuels.

In the preferred embodiment, for uise with a camping stove, the canister contains sui LPG fuel such as butane fuel or a butane/propane fuel mixture in liquid form. Vaporized fuel, as well as perhaps a vapor propellant, may be present in the canister above the surface 61 of the liquid fuel.

The canister 53 includes a cap 58. An outwvdly projecting pedestal 63 extends from the base 58a of the cap 58 and includes a top closure equipped with a sesdable canister outlet 63a. The axis of the pedestal 63 is substantially coincident with the axis of the canister 53, and the outlet 63a lies generally on that axis. Seated within the outlet 63a can be an aerosol-type check valve, which includes an orifice 75' in a webbing or s^ 75, through which a standvd probe or "bayonet" valving mech.anism can be inserted, but can employ any of a number of vsdves known in the sut. The Applicants pedestal is npj conventional in shape, as discussed in more detail below.

An annulv groove 71 is provided in a perimeter wall 58b of the canister cap 58 (as best seen in FIG. 10). This groove is a generally standvd feature in aerosol canister caps, formed during the conventional rolling process in which the cap is affixed to the canister. However, the canister of the present invention takes advantage of this feature in a unique manner, as discussed below.

Dip Tube

As shown in FIGS. 4, 5 A and 5B, a dip tube 56 depends inwvdly from the outlet of the canister 53. In the embodiment shown, the dip tube 56 includes a rigid tube 57, which comprises the majority of the length of the dip tube 56, and a flexible plastic coupling 59. The coupling 59 couples the rigid tube 57 in flow communication with the canister outlet. The coupling 59 can be attached to the rigid tube 57 by any of a number of well know means. In this embodiment, the rigid tube 57 is threaded and has a reduced diameter at its proximal end, which is friction fit with the flexible coupling 59.

The rigid tube 57 is preferably formed of metal .and weights the dip tube 56 to insure that the free end 56a of the dip tube always settles within, i.e., falls to a low position inside, the canister, regardless of the orientation of the canister. FIG. 4 shows the canister in an upright position, in which the dip tube 56 depends substantially vertically from the canister cap 58. The dip tube

56 is sufficiently long to extend sd ost to the bottom 62 of the canister 53. FIGS. 5A .and 5B, in contrast, shows the canister disposed on its side, generally horizontally, as it often will be in operation. Here, the free end 56a of the dip tube has fallen within the canister and rests against the side wall of the canister. Thus, the weight of the rigid tube 57 and the flexibility of the coupling 59 help to insure that the free end 56a of the dip tube remans submersed in liquid fuel, i.e., below the surface level 61. This promotes withdrawal of liquid fuel, as opposed to vapors, regardless of the orientation of the canister. Thus, a user need not be concerned with the orientation of the canister during use, and there is no need for any additional mechanism to .selectively orient the canister. The rigid tube 57 is preferably constructed of brass or steel, but other suitable metals may be used. Alternately, the tube 57 may be formed of rigid plastic instead of metal, so long as the tube 57 is resistant to the corrosive effects of the liquid fuel, .and so long as the tube 57 is sufficiently weighted to .assure that the free end falls to the bottom of the canister. In the case of a metal rigid tube 57, the tube itself will usually be heavy enough. With a plastic rigid tube 57, the weight of the tube may need to be supplemented. The rigid tube 57 may comprise more or less of the overall length of the dip tube than is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. For example, in one embodiment, not illustrated, the rigid tube 57 can be made of metal .and makes up approximately 20% of the length of the dip tube 56.

A flexible plastic sleeve 60 may be provided nev the free end of the rigid tube 57, especisdly in the case where die rigid tube 57 is metallic. If this sleeve 60 is provided, then the rigid tube 57 is preferably terminated somewhat short of the bottom of the canister to accommodate the terminal plastic sleeve 60. Without the sleeve 60, if the tube 57 is metal, the free end of the dip tube 56 would "ctenk" against the sidewall of the metal canister. While not necessary to the performance of the canister, this sleeve helps to dampen this clanking noise when the canister 53 is shaken or reoriented. The sleeve 60 might not be sis beneficial in the case of a tube 57 formed of rigid plastic. On the contrary, if such a sleeve 60 were employed with a rigid plastic tube 57, additional weight might have to be provided to counteract any tendency of the plastic sleeve 60 to stick to the metal wall of the canister — a problem inherently overcome in most cases with a metal tube 57.

The flexible coupling 59 .and the plastic sleeve 60 ve preferably constructed of one of the many flexible plastic materials which are capable of withstanding chemical attack by LPG over many years. Altemate mechanisms may be employed to hinge the dip tube 56. It is not necessary to employ a two-piece dip tube with a rigid tube and a flexible coupling. For example, a single rigid plastic tube with a circumferentially corrugated s .ection i.e., reminiscent of a bendable drinking straw, may be employed.

With reference to FIG. 5B, smother embodiment of a dip tube 54 is shown with a circumferentially corrugated s .ection 54a formed nev the end of die dip tube proximate to the outlet of the canister 53. In this embodiment a weight 55 which may comprise a solid cylinder with a plurality of longitudinal grooves 55(a) formed in its outer surface is inserted in the free end of the dip tube 54. The grooves .allow the fuel to pass between the outside surface of the cylindrical weight and the inner surface of dip tube 54.

An angled dip tube with a pivot could achieve the s .ame result. In either case, it might be necessary to weight the free end of the dip tube 56, such sis with a metallic tubulv in∞rt or collv, to insure that it remains properly oriented within the canister 53. It is possible to fabricate a dip tube 56 from a single flexible tube, but additional weight or other design features might be necessary to compensate for its tendency to curl or stick to the inside of the canister.

Pedestal

As mentioned previously in connection with the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 through 5A and 5B, the pedestal 63 of the canister 53 of present invention is not conventional in shape. Of particulv note is its noncirculv, cylindrical shape, i.e., a cylinder having noncirculv cross section perpendiculv to the axis of the outlet 63a.

More specifically, for purposes herein, it will be understood and accepted that generally a cylinder has a lateral surface and is bounded by a pair of planes, cross-sectioning the lateral surface of the cylinder. For purposes of discussion, the cross-sectional planes will be referred to as the bases of the cylinder. If the bases of the cylinder sire circles, the cylinder is referred to herein as a "circulv cylinder." In contrast, a "noncirculv cylinder", as used herein, does not include such a circulv cylinder having a smooth exterior lateral surface. Rather, a noncirculv cylinder as used herein includes all other shapes, including but not limited to cylinders that ve elliptical, parabolic, ovoid, and polygonsd, both regulv .and irregulv, .and especial includes a hexagonal shape according to a preferred embodiment. In addition, a noncirculv cylinder as used herein can be a substantially circulv cylinder having a one or more protuberances on its exterior lateral surface.

This noncirculv, cylindrical shape has multiple advantages. First, the shape will not mate well with a conventional valving mechanism designed to receive a circulv pedestal, thus impeding the use of the canister 53 in an inoperative environment — such sis with an appliance designed to be fueled by gaseous, as opposed to liquified fuel, i.e., vapor withdrawal systems. Second, the noncirculv, cylindrical pedestal can act as a contact surface to rotate a cam-activated valving mechanism or other output connector, permitting a simple push-and-twist attachment of the canister to a burning appliance.

Briefly, the pedestal 63 of the canister 53 can be inserted into a matching opening in a valving mechanism. Once inserted, rotation of the canister 53 — and the noncirculv, cylindrical pedestal 63 — about its axis can impart torque to the vsϋving mechanism. This torque can be used to activate a mechanism to secure the valve to the canister 53. Examples of a unique cam-activated valving assembly ve described below, and the interaction of the pedestal 63 therewith will be discussed in more detail later. However, it will be appreciated that the canister pedestal of the present invention is not limited to use with this pvticulv valving mechanism. Returning to FIG. 10, the pedestal includes a lower part 63a and an upper part 63b, which have different cross-section^ shapes. The upper part 63b is slightly narrower than the lower part 63a, and has a circulv cross section and a rounded upper edge. This facilitates insertion of the pedestal into a matching valve assembly and .seating of the pedestal in seals provided therein. However, this feature is not necessary to the invention, .and the pedestal 63 can have a uniform cross section throughout its length. The lower part 63a is illustrated sis having a hexagonal shape, but may have any non-regulv cylinder shape, including a substantially circulv cylindrical pedestal witii one or more protuberances on its side. It is preferred that the pedestal cross section be substantially regulv polygon^, centered at the canister outlet 63a, although the realties of metal forming make it unlikely that a true polygon can be achieved. This makes it easier to properly orient the canister relative to a mating valve assembly. It also promotes a more fully perimetric application of force from the canister 53 to the v.alve assembly. Rotation of the canister 53 applies forces to the mating valve assembly at a plurality of points or portions distributed relatively evenly about the coincident axes of the canister and pedestal.

An embodiment of the canister cap 58 is shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B. The cap has no annular groove because it has not yet been rolled onto a canister 53. The cap 58 can be formed of any suitable material, and in this embodiment 0.018 inch tin-plate is used. In one embodiment, the pedestal has a regulv hexagonal cross section. The cross section of the pedestal, in this embodiment, h.as an inscribed diameter (across from side to side) of approximately 0.420 to 0.426 inches and a circumscribed diameter (across from corner to corner) of approximately 0.450 to 0.460 inches in order to minimize the bulk while providing enough .space to embed the aerosol valve. While it is preferred that the tolerances of the dimensions be small, in order to provide a more precise fit with the vsdve assembly 46, this is not necessary to the operability of the invention.

The pedestal must be sized to substantially encase the aerosol valve. In order to protect the pedestal 63, the pedestal 63 can be designed to not extend significantly beyond the lip of the canister cap 58. In one embodiment, the pedestal extends approximately 0.365 to 0.374 inches from the base of the cap 58, and die upper part 63b is approximately 0.051 inches in height and has a radius of curvature 63r at its upper edge of approximately 0.029 inches. In this embodiment, a neck 63c, below the lower part 63a of the pedestal 63 comprises approximately the first 0.094 inches of the height of the pedestal 63, and the neck 63c .and the upper p.art 63b of the pedestal each have an interior diameter 63d of approximately 0.379 to 0.384 inches. The dimensions set forth throughout this disclosure sire intended to be exemplary and not limiting.

Valve Assembly — Valving The vsdve assembly 54, mentioned previously with reference to

FIG. 1A, is described first in conjunction with FIGS. 6 through 8. The vadving function of the .assembly 54 is performed by essenti.ally conventional means, with the exceptions noted herein. An indented knob 67 is provided for each valve — one for each burner 52, 52^*. A suitable known valve, which can be adapted for use in the present invention, can be seen in British Patent No. 2

262 156B. However, the vsdve assembly disclosed herein provides several unique and advantageous features. As seen in FIGS. 6B through 6D, the preferred .assembly housing 68 has a "clam shell" construction. In other words, a pair of shells 68a, 68b ve .secured together by screws, adhesive, or die like, to form a single housing. In the illustrated embodiment, three screws hold the shells together. The shells 68a, 68b ve similv in shape. One shell has bores through which screws can be channeled and is adapted to receive the heads of the screws, while die other shell has threaded bores for engaging the threads of the screws. Preferably the assembly housing is made of magnesium alloy or aluminum alloy.

As seen in FIG. 6C, contained within the housing is a generally "T-shaped* valve body 168, preferably made of brass. The valve body has an inlet probe 74 for insertion into the fuel canister. A "T-shaped" internal passage 168a teads from the probe to a pair of tapered valve chambers 168b located at opposite ends of the vsdve body and sharing a common axis.

Arranging the vsdve chambers in this manner contributes to the overall compactness of the valve assembly. Further, the .coaxial alignment of the valve chambers advantageously allows a user to grasp and twist the valve assembly when connecting a fuel canister thereto. Yet further, arranging the chambers in this msuiner facilitates cleaning of the vsdve assembly. Each valve chamber is tapered to fittingly receive a valve stem 67a of a corresponding control knob 67. Extending from the valve body ve a pair of psirallel cylindrical outlet fittings 168c, through which outlet passag.es 168d extend from a respective valve chamber. A fuel conduit is secured to each fitting by means of a clamp or the like. In accordance with this arrangement, the valve body defines .an air- tight flow path from the fuel canister to each fuel conduit.

Each valve chamber is thresided to receive a complementarily threaded valve stem connected to an actuator, such as a control knob. Rotating the control knob in one direction, counterclockwise, for example, opens me vsdve to allow fuel to flow from the canister to the fuel conduit corresponding to that control knob. Con verily, rotating the control knob in the other direction, i.e., clockwise, closes the valve to stop the flow of fuel.

Advantageously, the valve assembly employs a positive stop mechanism for limiting the quantity of fuel supplied to the burner during ignition tiiereof. The positive stop mechanism comprises a ring-shaped member 100 seated within the assembly housing and through which the valve stem extends, and two projections 68b, 68c formed on the internal circumference of the control knob. The ring, preferably m.ade of plastic, is shown in detail in FIG. 6D and has a release button 102 that projects through a slot 104 in the assembly housing. Directly below the tab 102 is a stopper 106 that projects partially into the hollow interior of the control lcnob. The stopper has a tapered shape, witii an outer surface curved to slide along the internal circumference of the control knob. The ring is broken directly adjacent to the tab and stopper, thus .allowing the ring to elastically deform when the tab is depressed. Spaced along me intern circumference of the control knob ve the rjαir of projections 68b, 68c (in tiiis embodiment spaced approximately 120° apart), one 68c of which is L-shaped and the other 68b of which is wedge-shaped.

In operation of the illustrated embodiment, as the control knob is rotated counterclockwise to open the valve, the wedge-shaped projection 68b abuts against the stopper 106, thereby preventing further counterclockwise rotation of the control knob. At tiiis point, a preselected quantity of fuel is delivered to the burner for ignition thereof. After the burner is ignited, if a higher fuel output is desired, the control knob can be further rotated in the counterclockwise direction by depressing the release button 102, causing the stopper 106 to drop below the wedge-shaped projection 68b. When die valve is fully-open, the L-shaped projection 68c abuts against the stopper 106, thus preventing further counterclockwi.se rotation of the control knob, regvdless of whether the tab is depressed again. This feature, s d thus the projection 68c, ve preferred but ve not necessary to the operation of me positive stop mechanism. To close the vsdve, the control knob 67 is rotated in the clockwise direction. When the control knob is rotated in the clockwise direction, die wedge-shaped projection 68b smd stopper 106 simply slide past one another without impeding rotation of the control knob 67.

Either the projection 68b or die stopper 106 should be tapered, but it is not necessary that both be .so tapered. This permits the valve to be closed without engaging the stop mechanism, which is not a necessary feature of the invention, but is preferred. The projection 68c need not be L-shaped, but does need to provide a contact surface that will impinge against the stopper.

The valves ve surrounded in a heat conductive relationship with a heat sink — as illustrated by the a . luminum, magnesium, or other housing 68, which may additionally be equipped with fins 69. This heat sink assists with the vaporization of fuel at a low input setting smd an initial light up. Without die heat sink, the temperature of the vsdve may drop too low to operate correctiy. The heat sink helps keep the temperature of the valve up to help avoid such problems.

Although the foregoing description of the valve assembly relates to a dual valve, the advantageous features such as the positive stop mechanism and heat sink equally apply to a single valve and to valve assemblies having tiiree or more valves.

As seen in FIGS. IB and 1C, the valve assembly 54 includes a support bracket 54a, which lends stability to the stove. The support bracket 54a impedes a canister, to which the valve assembly 54 is connected, from rolling, which could cause die stove to tip. Valve Assembly — Connection to Canister

FIGS. 6 through 15 illustrate an embodiment of the unique valve assembly 54 of die present invention. Referring initially to FIGS. 6 through 9, the valve .assembly includes a cam 64 and a collet 66. The cam 64 and the collet 66 cooperate in connecting the valve assembly 54 to a canister, such as the canister 53 discussed above.

The annul v collet 66, illustrated in detail in FIGS. 11A through 11F, includes a plurality of cantilevered L-shaped fingers 65, which extend generally perpendiculvly from the collet. In these embodiments, four fingers 65 ve .spaced substantially evenly about the collet 66, at a common radial distance from a center of the collet. Enlarged portions or pawls 70 extend from the fingers 65, at a distance from the base of die collet. The fingers 65 have a tapered leading edge 65a (FIG. 11B), a trailing-edge ridge 65b, and a notch 65c between die edge 65a and the ridge 65b, the purpose of which will be described below.

The collet 66 is fixed to the vsdve assembly 54. This can be accomplished by a number of means, such as rivets, adhesive, or other like well-known methods. In the preferred embodiment, the collet has a flange 66a which fits into a matching groove (not shown) in the valve assembly 54. At least one notch 66b is provided in die flange, into which a matching protuberance in die groove fits, to keep the collet 66 from rotating. A circumferential lip 66c abuts die valve assembly 54 and helps to prevent lateral movement of the collet 66. The circu ferential lip .66c also acts to limit the upwvd movement of the canister into the vsdve assembly 54. As illustrated in detail in FIGS. 12A through 12F, the cam 64 has a noncirculv, cylindrical receptacle 77, dimensioned to match die noncirculv, cylindrical pedestal 63 of the canister. The cam 64 sits within the collet 66 and is disposed to rotate relative to die vsdve assembly. This can be accomplished by .any of .several well-known mechanisms, such as connecting the cam to the vsdve assembly with an outwvdly extending lip 64a, as shown in

FIG. 10, or an inwvdly extending lip 64a', as shown in FIG. 12B, which sits in a matching groove (not shown) in the valve assembly 54. The cam rotates about the vsdve probe 74, which extends from die valve assembly 54 partially through the receptacle 77. Preferably, the receptacle 77 has an axis coincident with the valve probe 74. Disposed about the perimeter of the cam 64 are a series of radially extending lugs 76. The lugs 76 can be uniform in cross section, or be tapered as is apparent from FIG. 12B. Further, the lugs 76 can each have a raised rib 76a, which corresponds to the groove 65c of each finger 65.

In operation, briefly, when the cam 64 rotates, the lugs contact and force the collet fingers 65 outwvdly, which causes the pawls 70 on the collet fingers 65 to .also spread outwvdly — .and into die annul v groove 71 of the canister cap 58. This locks the valve body 54 to die canister 53. Seals can be provided at contact points between the body 54 and canister 53, such as the pair of seals 72, 73 best seen in FIGS. 10 and 13.

In more detail, before die valve assembly 54 is connected to die canister 53, the collet 66 and am 64 are disposed relative to one another as shown in FIG. 14. At this point, the lugs 76 of die cam 64 ve disposed in gaps between the fingers 65 of the collet. The valve assembly 54 and the canister 53 ve first aligned with one another as shown in FIG. 10, so that the extended probe 74 is aligned with the depression or recess 75' in the seal 72 of the cap 58. The vsdve assembly 54 and the canister 53 ve then brought together, .and die probe 74 is inserted through the recess 75' in the canister s^ 75, as best seen in FIG. 13. At this point, die hexagonal, cylindrical (in this embodiment) pedestal 63 of die canister 53 sits within the matching hexagonal, cylindrical receptacle 77 in die cam 64. In order to .secure the connection, the canister 53 is twisted like a screwdriver relative to the valve assembly 54. Becau.se of the mating noncirculv, cylindrical pedestal 63 and receptacle 77, this twisting rotates the cam 64, which forces the lugs 76 of the cam 64 to contact the fingers 65 of the collet 66. The inner surfaces of the fingers 65 ve disposed slightly closer to center tha. n the outer surfaces of the lugs 76. Therefore, as the lugs contact the tapered edge 65a of die fingers 65, the fingers 65 will deflect outwvdly. As the lugs 76 slide into alignment with die fingers, die fingers will be spread. The rotation of the cam 64 is complete when the lugs 76 abut against die ridges 65b of the fingers 65. At this point, the ribs 76a of the lugs sit in the grooves 65c of the fingers, providing resistance to accidental rotation of the cam 64 in the opposite direction. FIG. 15 shows die relative positions of the lugs 76 and the fingers 65' at tiiis stage. As the fingers 65 spread, the enlvged portions or pawls 70 move outwvdly vid into die annul v groove 71 in the cap of the canister 53. Thus, die va. lve assembly 54 is locked to the canister 53, and until the canister is re-rotated in die opposite direction, die valve assembly 54 and canister 53 remain lock.ed together. The above-de.scribed arrangement provides a highly reliable connection, because the axis of the canister 53 (and thus the pedestal 63) is now coincident with the .axes of both the cam 64 and the collet 66. This inventive cam/collet arrangement promotes a more or less fully perimetric application of force from the canister 53 to the cam 64 to the collet fingers 65, even if the cross section of canister pedestal 63 and/or die receptacle 77 is not regulv polygonal in shape. Whether the receptacle 77 is hexagonal, cylindrical or other noncirculv, cylindrical shape, the rotational forces imparted by the canister will be transferred by the cam at a plurality of locations about the coincident axes, which promotes easy and complete seating of the pawls 70 in the groove 71. Further enhancing the connection is the fact that the fingers move only radially — and not circumferentially — because only the cam 64 — and not die collet 66 — rotates. This promotes quick and secure seating of the pawls 70 in the groove 71.

An alternate embodiment of die cam-and-collet mechanism is shown in FIGS. 9B, 11G and 12G. The collet 66 is similv to the previously discussed embodiments in many respects, but has an inwvdly facing set of direads 6 > 6d. The collet fingers 65 include inwvdly extending pawls 70a opposite the outwvdly extending pawls 70. The collet 66 is fixed relative to the valve assembly by any conventional means, such as a noncirculv flange, screws, rivets, adhesive, or die like.

The cam 64 sits within the collet .and includes a set of threads 64b which mate with die threads 66d of die collet 66. In this embodiment, the ca 64 does not include radially extending lugs, but instead has a contact surface 64c on its leading edge.

In operation, as the am 64 is rotated by die canister, the mating direads 64b, 66d force die cam 64 to move .axially relative to die collet 66. As the cam 64 moves in the direction indicated by arrow A in FIG. 9B, the contact surface 64c will impinge upon the inwvdly extending pawls 70a of the collet fingers 65, forcing the fingers 65 to spread. As with die previously discussed embodiments, tiiis forces the outwardly extending pawls 70 into the groove of the canister cap (not shown in these figures). In the embodiment shown, both the inwvdly extending pawls 70a and the contact surface 70c ve tapered. While tiiese features improve the interaction between these elements during operation, it is not necessary that both or either of the pawl and the contact surface be so tapered.

While die valve assembly 54 of the present invention is particulvly well suited for use in combination with die LPG canister of the present invention, it will be appreciated that the unique cam-and-collet design provides for a simple push-and-twist attachment operation that can be employed with otiier canisters, supply lines, smd the like, as well. It will also be appreciated that the cam/collet mechanism of the present invention can utilize more or fewer lugs and fingers, which can also be spaced or sized differently.

It is not, for example, necessary that the lugs and fingers be evenly .spaced about die cam and collet, .although this does provide the advantages describe above. Also, the lugs .and fingers can be shaped differently. For example, rather tlwn taper die fingers 65, the lugs 76 can be tapered; or the grooves 65c and mating ribs 76a can be switched, so that the grooves ve on the lugs 76 and the ribs on the fingers 65.

Conduit

This portion of die invention is explained with reference to FIGS. 16 through 19. For example, FIG. 16 shows the lower right hand burner 52 of FIG. 1A. The conduit means 55 of FIG. 1 A includes two tubulv conduits 78,

79 going from die v.alve assembly 54 (shown only fragmentarily in FIG. 16 — suid in the lower right corner) to the burner 52 (.and to the "not shown" burner 52'). The conduit 78 extends from die valve assembly 54 to the right hsmd burner in FIG. 1A — this being the lower burner in FIG. 16.

The novel and advantageous construction of botii conduits 78, 79 is exemplified by die conduit 78 depicted in FIGS. 16 tiirough 18. Turning first to FIG. 17 smd starting at die outside, tiiere is a protective braid 80 which may be metal or plastic. In die illustration given, die braid 80 is constructed of metallic material, and the flexible tubing 81 is constructed of TEFLON*. The tubing 81 is packed with a solid, flexible plastic rod 82, such as a TEFLON^® or rubber rod that is resistant to degradation in LPG. In one embodiment, the conduit tubing 81 has an inner diameter of approximately 0.125" (about 3 mm) and die plastic cylindrical rod has an outer diameter of approximately 0.010 - 0.015" less.

The purpose of the rod is to reduce the volume of the conduit and to provide a large heat absorbing surface. It .also causes a pressure drop across die conduit. The combination of heat absoφtion and pressure drop helps to produce consistent vaporization during lighting. An additional advantage of the reduced volume is tiiat burner control is improved. Changes in flow settings will be more quickly reflected in burner output, because there will be less fuel in the conduit between the control vsdve and the burner.

The rigid conduits, which extend from die ends of die flexible conduits 78, 79 to where these rigid conduits meet the frame 51, ve also partially filled with a solid rod. For example, the flexible conduit 78 connects witii a rigid conduit 84. See the central part of FIG. 16. The rigid conduit lies .along and is supported by frame member 85. The conduit 84 connects to the burner 52 as seen in FIGS. 16 and 19. In one embodiment, the .solid rod in the rigid conduit is brass rodding having an outer diameter of approximately 0.063" (1.6 mm) with die brass tubing having an inner diameter of approximately 0.068" (1.7 mm). The packed brass conduits operate in die same fashion as the packed flexible conduits. The same structural arrangement applies for the brass (rigid) conduit coupled to the flexible conduit 79 for delivering fuel to die other burner (not shown in FIGS. 16 .and 19).

The rigid fuel conduit 84, for example, is connected to a brass block 86 position^ below the burner .air inlets (not shown). Fuel is conducted through a passage in the brass block 86 to a generator tube 87 which extends upwvdly towvd the burner flame zone. The tubulv passage then goes through the generator 83 and then downwardly back via tube 88 to the brass block 86. Thereafter, the flow path continues through smother passageway in the block 86 upwvdly to a convention^ orifice. The orifice dischvges fuel, now a gas, to a conventional venturi and then the resulting fuel/air mixture flows to the burner for burning. The portion of the generator tube 87, 88 in the flame zone may be provided with a heat sink plate — see the wider or enthickened portion 83 to increase the transfer of heat from the flame to the generator and thereby increase vaporization of fuel in die generator. Alternatively, the top portion of the generator may include a loop to increase the heat transfer vea expos-ed to die flame.

The Frame and Burners

Several of the accompanying figures illustrate a two burner stove. If only one burner 52 is desired, only a single psύr of support members 92, 93 need be employed. Unless otherwise noted, the following detailed de.scription of the various features of the collapsible frame applies to both single and multiple burner stoves.

In a preferred embodiment of the collapsible stove as shown in FIGS. 19, IB, and 1C, a collapsible frame 51 includes two X-shaped support members 92, 93 pivotally attached together at crossover points, or pivots 90,

91, of each support member 92, 93. Extending from each pivot 90, 91 ve a pair of opposing support legs 92a, 93a and a pair of opposing support arms 92b, 93b. Referring to FIGS. 21 .and 1C, .each X-shaped support member

92, 93 has a pivot 90, 91 , shown here as an annul v hub, through which a portion of a burner assembly 52a extends. In die embodiment shown, the burner .assembly 52a serves as a pivot axis, about which one support member 92 pivots. A rigid fuel conduit .84, mounted on the other support member 93, prevents die otiier support member 93 from pivoting about die burner assembly 52a. However, if the rigid fuel conduit 84 were not mounted on the support member 93, both support members 92, 93 could pivot about the burner assembly 52a. Although in the present embodiment both support members ve (or potentially ve) pivotally attached to die burner assembly 52a, a similv collapsible frame could be constructed by fixedly attaching a first support member to the burner .assembly, a . nd pivotally attaching a .second support member to either the burner assembly or the first support member.

Pivots 90, 91 of support members 92, 93 each include a rotation limiter 90a, 91a. As illustrated in FIG. 1C, the rotation limiter 90a, on the uppermost support member 92, extends dowπwvdly. The rotation limiter 91a, on the lowermost support member 93, extends upwvdly. Each rotation limiter

90a, 91a is positioned along the outer circumference of the respective pivot 90, 91 so tiiat when the frame 51 is in the operating configuration, the rotation limiter 90a, 91a of each support member 92, 93 abuts against die other support member 93, 92. Accordingly, the rotation limiters 90a, 91a restrict the amount tiiat the support members 92, 93 can pivot relative to one another. In a preferred embodiment, the rotation limiters 90a, 91a permit the support members 92, 93 to pivot approximately 90° relative to one another.

By integrating two or more frames of the above-described type, additional burners can be accommodated. For example, in the two burner embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A, 20, smd 21 , two pairs of pivotally connected

X-shaped support members 92, 93, 92^*, 93^* ve arranged in quadrilateral relation to provide burners 52, 52^* at two opposing corners .and pivots at the otiier two "non-burner" corners 94, 95. Reference to FIG. 20 (.and also FIG. 1A) reveals that the two burner frame 51 is generally rectangulv when uncollap.sed. In this uncollapsed or operating configuration, the support members 92, 93, 92', 93' cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove 50. In a collapse configuration, shown in FIG. 2, in which the support members 92, 93, 92^*, 93' sire juxtaposed in a compact arrangement, die frame 51 has a narrow elongated shape that is suitable for transport in a backpack or the like. The compactness of the frame 1 can be appreciated from die sequence of views in FIGS. 22 dirough 26. Opposing support members 92 .and 92', 93 and 93' remain substantially parallel to one .another as the frame moves betw∞n the operating and collap.sed configurations.

In die single burner embodiment, the support legs 92a, 93a and support arms 92b, 93b are of equal lengtfi. See FIGS. IB smd lC. In the two burner embodiment, a support leg 92a, 92a^* and corresponding support arm 92b, 92b' of two opposing support members 92, 92^* have an extended portion, the distal end of which is attached witii a pivot pin to a corresponding portion of an adjacent support member 93^*, 93. See FIG. 20. However, a two burner collapsible frame could have support members 92, 93, 92', 93^* all of equal length. Likewise, a single burner collapsible frame could have support members 92, 93 of unequal length.

Advantageously, die support members may be constructed of lightweight metal, preferably magnesium alloy or aluminum alloy. However, depending upon usage and otiier physical conditions, other materials may be suitably employed. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2, to further reduce the weight of the frame 51, material may be removed from die inside of the support members by reducing the thickness or creating through-holes in the support arms and legs. The support members can be formed by any conventional means, and ve preferably formed by die casting.

In the operating configuration, die support .arms 92b, 93b cooperate to form a cooking utensil support. As shown in FIG. 1A, each support arm 92b, 93b has a series of steps 100 to optimsdly support pots, pans, or otiier cooking utensils. The steps 100 increase in height above the ground or other support surface as they are located farther from the pivot center 90, 91 of the frame 51. Also, the steps 100 may slope down towvd the pivot center 90, 91, i.e., the center of die pot, pen, vessel or other cooking utensil, to provide greater stability. In the illustration given, four steps 100 ve provided to accommodate different size pots, pans, vessels or other cookery utensils. However, fewer or more steps can be provided depending on the intended application of the stove. The steps shown in this embodiment .are merely for purposes of illustration. Equivalently, die steps could be a series of raised bumps on die support arms or a series of notches formed in die support arms. Those skilled in die art will appreciate the various other possible configurations of steps.

In a preferred embodiment, ratiier than integrally forming steps on die support members, grate wires similv to wires 152a shown in FIG. 27 ve employed. FIGS. IB and 1C illustrate how such grate wires 92c, 93c ve mounted on the support members 92, 93. Each grate wire slopes towvd die center of die stove smd has a series of spaced notches 92d, 93d formed therein for stabilizing cooking utensils of different sizes. The grate wires preferably ve constructed of stainless steel. Alternatively, the grate wires can be formed of plated steel, or otiier materials capable of withstanding die high temperatures encountered during use. The grate wires ve mounted to die support members by pressing, crimping, pinning, bonding or other attachment techniques. By using grate wires in this manner, less heat is conducted to die frame than when the support members directly support a cooking utensil. This is especially advantageous when die support members ve formed of a highly heat-conductive material such as an aluminum or magnesium alloy.

In the single burner embodiment, a rigid fuel conduit 84 rests against one support leg 93a of the burner frame 51. A bracket 93e extends from the support leg 93a to hold die rigid fuel conduit 84 against the support leg 93a. See FIGS. 19 and 1C. In the two burner embodiment, "non-burner" corner 95 seives sis the entry of the flexible fuel conduits 78, 79. A bracket

92e' on one extended support leg 92a^* holds a rigid fuel conduit 96 for burner 52^*. A bracket 93e on the adjacent support leg 93a, which is pivotally attached to die extended support leg 92a', holds another rigid fuel conduit 84 for burner 52. With the two burner frame 51 is folded into a relatively compact or "flat" configuration, die rigid fuel conduits 84, 96 ve substanti ly parallel, with their ends remote from die burner assemblies 52a, 52a^* protruding slightly from the folded frame 51. This arrangement permits the Ωexible fuel conduits 78, 79 .and the v.alve assembly 54 to fold over the collap.sed frame 51 for compact storage.

The burner 52 of FIG. 1A is equipped with a 360° unitary, bowl-shaped wind screen 89. See also FIGS. 19 and 21. The wind screen is positioned between the burner 52 smd die support member pivots 90, 91. See

FIGS. 20, 21, and lC.

Alternatively, die burner 52 may be equipped with a .segmented, bowl-shaped wind screen 89a. See FIGS. 2 and 22 through 26. The wind screen 89a is constructed of four curved segments 97, 98, 97^*, 98^*, or quadrants, each of which is attached to an appropriate support member. In accordance with this arrangement, each wind screen segment can rotate with a respective support member to provide a compact storage configuration. Rather than attaching each wind screen segment to an appropriate support member, smother arrangement may have an opposing pair of segments attached to one support member, and the other opposing pair of segments attøched to the burner assembly itself. The general compactness of the frame and wind screen, can be appreciated from the sequence of views shown in FIGS. 22 through 26. In FIG. 26, the wind s . creen segments are virtually completely stacked, or overlapping, i.e., each upper segment 97, 97' almost eclipses the associated lower segment 98, 98'. In the operating configuration shown in FIG. 22, the gap 99' between die upper smd lower segments 97, 98 is virtually nonexistent. At a preliminary stage of folding shown in FIG. 24, there is a gap 99 of about 20°. In the completely collapse configuration shown in FIG. 26, the gap 99" is almost 90°. In order to properly position the support members 92, 93 relative to the burner assembly 52a, a helical spring 52b is provided on the burner assembly 52a below the support members 92, 93. The spring 52b urges the support members 92, 93 towvd the underside of the burner 52.

Understandably, the wind .screen 89 tends to become hot when the stove is operated. To reduce the heat transferred from the windscreen 89 to the support members 92, 93, a "corrugated" washer 52c may be interposed between the windscreen 89 and the uppermost support member 92. See FIG. lC. The "waves" in die washer 52c reduce the surface contact and consequently the heat transferred from die windscreen 89 to die support members 92, 93. Other devices or arrangements, such as an insulative washer formed of heat insulating material can be used to reduce die transfer of heat from the wind .screen to the support members.

Second Connector Embodiment

Reference is now made to FIGS. 27 through 29. At the outset it will be understood tiiat this embodiment may be used with either circulv or noncirculv cylindrical pedestals. Two alternative features of the invention ve illustrated. First, in FIG. 27, there is a single burner form of camp stove — seen mounted directly on the canister 153, i.e., without the interposition of flexible conduit means. However, conduit means ve provided as part of a valve assembly 154, which advantageously provide the promotion of vaporization of the conduits, etc., of the first described embodiment. The burner 152 is equipped with U-shaped supports for supporting a pot, pan, vessel, cooking utensil or the like. The canister 153 is equipped with a cap 158. See also FIG. 28. Positioned immediately above the cap 158 is the valve assembly 154. The burner 152 is rigidly carried by die valve assembly 154. What is especially novel and advantageous is the connection between the valve assembly 154 and the cap 158.

This embodiment also employs a collet-type member 166 — better seen in FIG. 29 — and a cam member 164 also seen in perspective in FIG. 29. The cam member 164 .also has associated therewith the probe 174 — carried by the valve assembly 154 in fixed relation to the cam member 164 which is sdso rigidly mounted on die v.alve assembly 154.

Differing from the first embodiment is the fact that the collet member 166 is provided as part of the cap 158. The cap 158 agvn has the inwardly facing annulv or circumferential groove 171 into which an annulv rib 170 (corresponding to die pawls 70 of the first embodiment) provided on die collet 166 is received. As the cam member 164 is brought towvd engagement with die collet member 166 carried by die cap 158 — die condition depicted in FIG. 29 — the radi.ally outwvdly extending lugs 176 on the pω member 164 ve sdigned with the open ends of die L-shaped slots 101 provided in die fingers 165. These fingers 165 in collet-like fashion are separated by axially-extending slots or separations 101.

As the lugs 176 engage the L-shaped slots 101, they follow the slot contour as the canister 153 is rotated. Again, the canister is provided with a stepped pedestal 163 where the lower step 163a is non-circulv. Again, in the illustration given, a hexagonal shape is employed — to match opening 177 in die cam member 164. As the canister is rotated relative to the valve assembly, or vice versa, the lugs 176 move further down the L-shaped slots 101 which become shallower — developing a more s>ecure .seat of the cam member 164 (and tiierefore the v.alve assembly 154) in the collet member 166 (and therefore the cap 158 of die canister 153). This results in two advantageous functions.

First, the fingers 165 ve forced outwvdly — further seating the annulv rib 170 in the .annulv recess 171. Second, this brings the probe 174 downwvdly through the web 175 — more particulvly, the orifice 175' — to effectuate a secure seal.

Third Connector Embodiment

The third embodiment is seen in FIGS. 30 through 32. At the outset it will be understood that this embodiment also may be used with either circulv or noncirculv cylindrical pedestals. This embodiment has the collet .and cap combined .and also provides the same vaporization promoting operation downstream of the canister.

In each of FIGS. 30 and 31, reference numeral 253 designates the canister equipped with a rolled-on cap 258. The cap is equipped with a centrally apertured boss 263 somewhat akin to the pedestal of the preceding embodiments. The boss 263 has fitted therein a s .eal 275 having a recessed thinner .area 275'. This is engaged by the probe 274 provided as part of the lower housing 264 of the valve assembly generally designated 254. Seen only in FIG. 30.

The lower housing 264 is equipped witii a pair of opposed lugs 276 which are engageable witii a pair of opposed ramped slots 201. As the lugs enter the slots, relative turning movement (e.g., a 1/4 turn) of the valve assembly and canister cap results in the parts being pulled together, the probe 274 rupturing the tiiin web 275' .and die lugs being temporarily locked by the detent 202 adjacent to, but spaced from, the lower end of each slot 201. This results in the two parts, i.e., canister cap 258 and valve assembly 254, remaining connected. And when disconnection is indicated, all that is required is a reverse 1/4 turn, for example.

To provide a greater engagement or entry of the lower housing into the cap, he modification of FIG. 32 may be employed. There, all the parts ve die .same except the vertical wsdl of die cap is lengthened and has a rolled top — as at 258'. Also, the ramped slot is different. In FIG. 32, the slot 201' is seen to have its upper terminus in the rolled upper edge of the cap, rather tiian the flved upper edge of die FIG. 31 embodiment. In eitiier event, the same advantageous operation relative to promoting flow path vaporization is available.

Alternate Frame Embodiment

FIGS. 34A through 34D illustrate another embodiment of the stove frame 51, which includes three pivotally connected support legs 191, 192,

193. The legs 191, 192, 193 extend, respectively, from annulv pivots 194,

195, 196 with openings 194a, 194b, 194c, through which the burner .assembly 52 is .secured. Support leg 191 includes a bracket 196, which is provided to hold e rigid fuel conduit 84 against the support leg 191, essentially fixing the support leg 191 to the burner assembly.

In order to facilitate collapsibility of the frame 51, the support leg 192 extends approximately radially from the .annulv pivot 195, while support legs 191, 193 ve siskew relative to the annulv pivots 194, 196, respectively. The support legs 191, 193 ve offset from the annulv pivots 194, 196 in opposite directions. That is, when viewed from above with the support legs 191, 193 oriented similvly, annulv pivot 194 will be offset to one side of support leg 191, while annulv pivot 196 will be off .set to the other side of the support leg 193. In die embodiment shown, when die frame 51 is assembled, annulv pivot 194 is stacked on top of .annulv pivot 195, which is, in turn, stacked on top of annulv pivot 196. A rotation limiter 192a (di∞ussed below) on support leg 192, prevents the support legs 191 , 193 from pivoting beyond a certain degree away from the support leg 192. This permits the legs to be collapsed against one another in only one direction. Thus, when the frame 51 is collapsed, support legs 191, 193 lie closely against opposite sides of support leg 192.

Support legs 191, 193 are also offset vertically relative to annulv pivots 194, 196, respectively. When viewed from the side, s nulv pivot 194 extends from a higher point on support leg 191 thsin does smnulv pivot 195 from support leg 192, which is in turn higher than annulv pivot 196 is relative to support leg 193. This permits the legs 191, 192, 193 to be at a substantisdly common height when the annulv pivots 194, 195, 196 are stacked when the frame 51 is .assembled.

The rotation limiter 192a extends from annulv pivot 195 opposite die support leg 192. This limiter 192a extends above and below annulv pivot 195, and is dimensioned to contact each of the other support legs

191, 193 when they .are pivoted approximately 120° away from support leg

192. This defines a fully-open position, shown in FIG. 34A, in which the support legs 191 , 192, 193 are approximately evenly distributed about die burner .assembly 52. Because the support legs 191, 193 ve offset relative to annulv pivots 194, 196, respectively, the limiter 192 can be relatively small and still maintain the separation between these support legs 191, 193. In the embodiment shown, for example, the .annulv pivot 195 has an outer radius of approximately 0.60", and die limiter 192a is only approximately 0.37" across its widest portion, which is approximately 0.70" from die center of the pivot

195. It is not necessary that the stove be designed so that die support legs 191, 192, 193 will be evenly separated when die stove is fully open. Any desired separation can be achieved by altering the siize smd location of the limiter 192a.

One particulv advantage of tiiis configuration is the ease with which the frame 51 can be opened and collapse. From the collapse position, with die support legs 191, 192, 193 lying closely against one another, a user need only grasp and rotate support leg 193 about the burner (clockwise, when viewed from above, in the illustrated embodiment) away from support leg 191 as fv as possible to open the stove. As support leg 193 rotates to approximately 120° away from support leg 192, it will contact the limiter 192a. Further rotation of die support leg 193 in the same direction will force the limiter 192a, and therefore the support leg 192, to rotate in the same direction relative to the support leg 191. This continues until the limiter 192a contacts the support leg 191, at which point the stove will be in the illustrated, fully- opened positioned. To close die stove, support 193 is simply rotated about the burner .assembly 52 in the opposite direction (counterclockwise, when viewed from above, in the embodiment shown).

Summary

The invention of an LPG canister connector for a combustion appliance 52, 52' includes means providing a flow path from a canister 53, 153, 253 containing liquid fuel and having a cap 58, 158, 258 with outlet means at the upstream end of e flow path, a valve as.sembly 54, 154, 254 adapted to be connected to the cap and equipped with conduit means adapted to be connected to a combustion appliance 52, 52', 152 at the downstream end of die flow path, the flow path means being equipped with means for promoting vaporization of die fuel intermediate the ends of the flow path.

The vaporization promoting means may take a variety of forms. For example, the most upstream position for tiiis to occur is in the v.alve assembly 54, 154, 254. In addition to the aluminum or other metal body which makes up the valve assembly, other heat sink producing structures may be employed such as the fins 69. Anodier example of the vaporisation promoting means are the flexible and rigid conduits. By "packing" them, it is reasonably convenient to achieve a lvge heat absorbing surface and a reduction of volume in die flow path downstream of die canister, viz., lower flow rates. Still further, die use of metal in junctions, particulvly when flow directions change, can be helpful in promoting vaporization of the last vestiges of liquid. Exemplsiry of this sue die block 86 and die generator 83.

The invention, as indicated above, finds use in conn∞tion with lanterns — particulvly the msmtie type which operates advantageously on liquid fuel. There, we interpose thermal insulation in the flow path between the generator and die burner tip or jet. This promotes vaporization prior to the burner in a configuration generally like that of FIG. 27. A suitable burner for the lantern and die other embodiments hereof can be seen in British Patent 2 262 157B. While in the foregoing specification a detailed description of embodiments of die invention have been set down for the purpose of illustration and compliance with the statute, many variations in the details herein given may be made by tho.se skilled in die art without departing from the spirit and scope of die invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A collapsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a burner assembly; and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner .assembly, die frame comprising a plurality of support members, the support members being pivotal relative to one another about a common axis on which the burner assembly is supported.

2. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 1, wherein the frame is movable between .an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, and a collapsed configuration, in which the support members ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

3. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 1, wherein the plurality of support members comprise a pair of support members, smd each support member comprises a pair of opposing legs, and the common axis is between the opposing legs of each support member.

4. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 1, further comprising an additional burner assembly and an additional collapsible frame for supporting the additional burner assembly, the additional frame comprising a plurality of support members, the support members of the additional frame being pivotal relative to one another about a common .axis on which the additional burner assembly is centered; die second frame being pivotally attached to the first frame.

5. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 4, wherein the stove is movable between a multiple burner operating configuration, in which the frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collap.sed configuration, in which the frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

6. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of support members compri.se three support legs, each support leg extending from an annulv pivot centered about the common axis and dirough which a portion of the burner .assembly extends.

7. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 6, wherein the annulv pivot of one of the support legs is sandwiched between the .annulv pivots of the remaining support legs, the stove further comprising a rotation limiter protruding from die .sandwiched annulv pivot in a different direction than the one support leg, the limiter being configured to impinge upon die remaning support legs so that one of the remaning support legs is pivotal about the common axis only between one side of die limiter and one side of the one support leg, and die other of the remaining support legs is pivotal about the common .axis only between another side of die limiter and another side of the one support leg.

8. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 7, wherein the limiter is configured to prevent each of the remaining support legs from being pivoted more than a respective predetermined angle away from the one of the support legs.

9. A collapsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a burner assembly; and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly, the frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member comprising a pair of opposing support legs, and at least one support member being pivotally attached to the burner assembly, the frame being movable between an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, smd a collapsed configuration, in which the support members are juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

10. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 9, wherein the at least one support member is pivotally attached to the burner assembly between the support legs of that support member.

11. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 9, each support member further comprising a pair of support arms, the support arms cooperating to form a cooking utensil support when the frame is in the operating configuration.

12. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 11 , wherein each support arm has a stepped support surface for supporting smd stabilizing cooking utensils of different sires above the burner assembly.

13. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 9, wherein the support members ve made of a material selected from the group consisting of magnesium alloy and aluminum alloy.

14. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 9, further comprising a wind screen disposed about the burner assembly, the wind screen comprising two pairs of opposing curv.ed segments, at least one of the pairs of opposing curved segments being attached to and movable with one of the support members so that the pairs of opposing curved segments substantially overlap when die stove is moved into die collapsed configuration.

15. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 14, further comprising a heat insulating member interposed between the wind .screen smd the frame, the heat insulating member comprising a corrugated washer.

16. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 9, further comprising a pair of insulative grate wires mounted on each support member for supporting cooking utensils above the burner assembly.

17. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clsύm 9, further comprising a second burner assembly and a .second collapsible frame for supporting the .second burner .assembly, the .second frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member of the second frame comprising a pair of opposing support legs, and at least one support member of die second frame being pivotally attacled to the second burner .assembly, the second frame being pivotally attached to die first frame so that the stove is movable between a multiple burner operating configuration, in which the first and .second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, smd a collapsed configuration, in which the first and second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

18. A collapsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a burner assembly; and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner .assembly, the frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot, at least one of die pivots being pivotally attached to the burner assembly so that the support members can pivot relative to one .another, the frame being movable between an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, and a collapsed configuration, in which the support members ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

19. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 18, wherein each pivot comprises a substantially annulv hub through which a portion of the burner assembly extends.

20. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 18, each support member further comprising a pair of support arms, the support arms cooperating to form a cooking utensil support when the frame is in the operating configuration.

21. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 18, further comprising a wind screen di.spo.sed about die burner assembly, the wind .screen comprising two pairs of opposing curved segments, at least one of the pairs of opposing curved segments being attached to and movable with one of the support members so that the pairs of opposing curved segments substantially overlap when the stove is moved into die collapsed configuration.

22. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 21, further comprising a heat insulating member interposed between the wind screen and the frame, the heat insulating member comprising a corrugated washer.

23. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 18, further comprising a pair of insulative grate wires mounted on each support member for supporting cooking utensils above the burner assembly.

24. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 18, further comprising a second burner assembly and a second collapsible frame for supporting the second burner assembly, the .second frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member of the .second frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot, at least one of die pivots being pivotally attached to the second burner assembly so that the support members of die second frame can pivot relative to one another, the .second frame being pivotally attached to die first frame so that the stove is movable betw.een a multiple burner operating configuration, in which the first and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collapsed configuration, in which die first and second frames are juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

25. A collsipsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a burner assembly; and a collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly, the frame comprising a pair of substantially X-shaped support members, each support member comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing support legs extending from die pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to the burner assembly so that the support members can pivot relative to one smother, the frame being movable between .an operating configuration, in which the support members provide a stable base for the stove, .and a collapsed configuration, in which the support members ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

26. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 25, wherein each pivot comprises a substantially annulv hub through which a portion of the burner assembly extends.

27. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 25, further comprising a wind screen disposed about the burner assembly, the wind screen comprising two pairs of opposing curved segments, at least one of the pars of opposing curved segments being attached to and movable with one of the support members so that the pairs of opposing curved segments substantially overlap when the stove is moved into the collapsed configuration.

28. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 25, further comprising a heat insulating member interposed between the wind screen and the frame, the heat insulating member comprising a corrugated washer.

29. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clsum 25, further comprising a pair of insulative grate wires mounted on each support member for supporting cooking utensils above the burner assembly.

30. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clsum 29, further comprising a second burner assembly and a .second collapsible frame for supporting the second burner assembly, the second frame comprising a pair of substantisdly X-shaped support members, each support member of the second frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing support legs extending from die pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to. the .second burner assembly so that the support members of the .second frame can pivot relative to one another, the .second frame being pivotally attached to the first frame so that die stove is movable between a multiple burner operating configuration, in which the first and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collaps. ed configuration, in which the first .and .second frames are juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

31. A collapsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a first burner assembly; a first collapsible frame for supporting the burner .assembly, the first frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member of the first frame comprising a pair of opposing support legs, and at least one support member of the first frame being pivotally attached to the first burner assembly; a second burner .assembly; and a second collapsible frame for supporting the second burner

.assembly, the .second frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member of the .second frame comprising a pair of opposing support legs, at least one support member of the .second frame being pivotally attached to the .second burner assembly, and .each support member of the second frame being pivotally attached to a corresponding support member of the first frame so that the stove is movable between an operating configuration, in which die first and .second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collapsed configuration, in which die first and second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

32. ' The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 31, wherein one support member of the first frame and an opposing support member of the second frame are longer tiian the other support members of the first .and .second frames.

33. The collapsible fuel-buming stove of clam 31, wherein opposing support members of the first and .second frames reman substantially parallel as the stove is moved betw∞n die operating configuration and the collapse configuration.

34. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 31, wherein the at least one support member of each of the first smd .second frames is pivotally attached to a respective burner assembly between the support legs of that support member.

35. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 31, each support member of the first smd .second frames further comprising a pair of support arms, the support arms of each of the first and second frames cooperating to form a cooking utensil support when the stove is in the operating configuration.

36. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 31, further comprising a wind screen disposed about each burner assembly, each wind screen comprising two pairs of opposing curved segments, at least one of the pairs of opposing curved segments being attached to and movable with one of the support members of a respective frame so that the pairs of opposing curved segments .substantially overlap when the stove is moved into the collapsed configuration.

37. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 36, further comprising a heat insulating member interposed between each wind screen and a respective frame, the heat insulating member comprising a corrugated washer.

38. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clsum 31, further comprising a pair of insulative grate wires mounted on each support member of the first smd .second frames for supporting cooking utensils above a respective burner assembly.

39. A collapsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a first burner assembly; a first collapsible frame for supporting die burner .assembly, the first frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member of the first frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to the first burner assembly so that the support members of the first frame can pivot relative to one another; a .second burner .assembly; and a .second collapsible frame for supporting the second burner

.assembly, the second frame comprising a pair of support members, each support member of the second frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to die second burner .assembly so that die support members of the second frame can pivot relative to one another, and each support member of the second frame being pivotally attached to a corresponding support member of the first frame so that the stove is movable between an operating configuration, in which the first and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collapsed configuration, in which the first and .second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.

40. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 39, wherein one support member of the first frame and an opposing support member of the second frame are longer than the otiier support members of the first .and .second frames.

41. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 39, wherein opposing support members of the first .and .second frames remain substantially parallel as the stove is moved between the operating configuration and the collapsed configuration.

42. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 39, wherein each pivot comprise a substantially annulv hub through which a portion of a respective burner assembly extends.

43. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clam 39, each support member of the first smd second frames further comprising a pair of support arms, the support arms of each of the first smd second frames cooperating to form a cooking utensil support when the stove is in the operating configuration.

44. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of clsum 39, further comprising a wind screen disposed about each burner .assembly, each wind screen comprising two pairs of opposing curved segments, at least one of die pairs of opposing curved segments being attached to and movable with one of die support members of a respective frame so that the pars of opposing curved segments substantially overlap when the stove is moved into the collapsed configuration.

45. The collapsible fuel-burning stove of claim 44, further comprising a heat insulating member interposed between each wind screen and a respective frame, each heat insulating member comprising a corrugated washer.

46. A collapsible fuel-burning stove comprising: a first burner assembly; a first collapsible frame for supporting the burner assembly, the first frame comprising a pair of substantially X-shaped support members, each support member of die first frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing support legs extending from the pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to the first burner assembly so that e support members of the first frame can pivot relative to one another; a .second burner .assembly; and a second collapsible frame for supporting the second burner assembly, the .second frame comprising a pair of substantially X-shaped support members, each support member of the second frame comprising a pivot and a pair of opposing support arms and a pair of opposing legs extending from the pivot, at least one of the pivots being pivotally attached to the .second burner assembly so that the support members of the second frame can pivot relative to one another, and each support member of the .second frame being pivotally attached to a corresponding support member of the first frame ∞ that the stove is movable betw-een s operating configuration, in which the first and second frames cooperate to provide a stable base for the stove, and a collapsed configuration, in which the first and second frames ve juxtaposed in a compact arrangement.